Freeloader alert: Free party for the kids (and you) at icon Grill

Welcome to Seattle Times Freeloader: A new feature that helps you load up on free stuff.

Here's a fabulous freebie for you and the kids: icon Grill hosts a free cookie-decorating party for children at 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 5. While the little ones slather gingerbread with frosting and sprinkles, parents get to sit back and munch on complimentary appetizers.

The only hitch: The party is limited to 40, so reserve soon by calling 206-441-6330. The restaurant is located at 1933 Fifth Ave., Seattle.

Today is also a good day to reserve a table for a free two-course dinner at Grand Cru Wine Bar in Bellevue.

The offer is good Wednesdays and Saturdays and there's a bit of fine print to note: You choose your courses from a special, limited menu (including options such as Caesar salad and roasted pork loin), and you will be charged an 18 percent gratuity for service on the full value of the meal. But the food itself is free. Of course no one would blame you for ordering a flight of wine to go with it, but no purchase is necessary.

You must make a reservation in advance: 425-455-4278 or www.grandcru-winebar.com. Grand Cru Wine Bar is located at 1020 108th Ave. N.E., Bellevue.

Aargh! Saturday, Nov. 28, is Pirate Day for Kids at Mighty-O Donuts. Children dressed as pirates get a free mini doughnut of their choice (2110 N. 55th St., Seattle; 206-856-9058 or www.blog.mightyo.com).

McDonald's has a coupon for a free small mocha or caramel frappé on its Western Washington Web site: iwantfrieswiththat.com. The offer expires Dec. 7 and may not be available at all area McDonald's, since they're operated independently. So call before you go and check to make sure your local outlet doesn't require a purchase to activate the coupon.

If you haven't yet been to the Bravern, the new upscale shopping center in Bellevue, plan your trip for a Wednesday in December. Free nonalcoholic beverages will be handed out to all comers at the center's three fireplaces from 4-8 p.m. every Wednesday beginning Dec. 2 (11111 N.E. Eighth St., Bellevue; 425-456-8780 or www.thebravern.com).

Here are your choices, according to the Bravern's news release: "hot chocolate from Artisanal, spiced apple cider from Trophy Cupcakes, hot chai or a selection of teas from Wild Ginger and spiced pomegranate and cranberry cider from John Howie Steak."

Hear about a free giveaway? Comment on this story or e-mail the details to ljacobson@seattletimes.com.